President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Vice President Sara Duterte gave a united appreciation on behalf of the nation for the achievements of women in our society.

On Saturday, 8 March, the world celebrated International Women’s Day recognizing the focal point in the women’s rights movement, especially on issues such as gender equality, reproductive rights, and violence and abuse against women.

According to Marcos, being a woman requires resilience and strength. He likened them to our Inang Bayan or motherland “dynamic and ever-evolving”.

“Many of the developments we witness today can be attributed to the innumerable contributions of women across generations who fought, struggled and advocated for various noble causes,” he said.

He also noted the crucial role of Filipino women in shaping our nation’s narrative.

“From the Babaylans, Katipuneras, and Filipina guerillas of the past to the front liners, professional trailblazers, and visionary leaders of today, our country has produced millions of empowered women who gave their knowledge, talents, and even their lives for the sake of many,” he said.

Break the cycle of abuse

Vice President Duterte called on the nation to work together to strengthen laws, improve access to justice, support survivors and challenge the deeply-rooted norms that enable violence.

“Every sector of society — government, private institutions, civil society and individuals — must work together to break the cycle of abuse and exploitation,” Duterte said.

“Together, let us build a future where no woman fears for her safety, where every girl can pursue her dreams without fear of violence, and where equality is not just a goal, but a lived reality,” the Vice President added.

Duterte also said that the “fight for women’s rights is not just about closing economic and political gaps — it is about ensuring that every woman and child is protected, heard, and allowed to thrive.”

She described Filipino women as being “at the forefront of change — leading in governance, driving innovation, and strengthening communities.”